Scrollsaw and Marquetry SIG
Scrollsaw work is a relatively modern technique, using electrically-powered, bench-mounted, reciprocating saws with very thin blades, but it is derived from traditional techniques such as the hand-cut fretwork that can be seen and admired on many old buildings and in antique furniture, particularly in Europe and the UK.
The main purpose for using a scroll saw is its ability to cut intricate curves and joints, very quickly, and with great accuracy. It can also be used to cut dovetail joints, intarsia and inlays for veneer projects. Using a very fine blade, the saw kerf is all but invisible. The ability to cut veneers in "stacks", producing identical pieces, allows the creation of detailed, complicated and beautiful pictures - by stacking different variations of veneer, cutting results in perfectly fitting pieces, in woods of different colors and grain pattern, which can be assembled to form aesthetically pleasing designs.
Although it is commonly referred to within the Guild as the Scrollsaw SIG, this group also covers the use of marquetry in all of its applications. Marquetry is the craft of covering a structural carcass with precisely-cut pieces of veneer to form decorative patterns, designs or pictures. The technique may be applied to furniture; to decorative small objects with smooth, veneerable surfaces; or to free-standing pictorial panels.
The Scrollsaw SIG holds a large number of patterns for a wide variety of scrollsaw work, these are available for the exclusive use of Scrollsaw SIG members. The Guild has a substantial supply of both common and exotic timbers suitable for scrollsaw work, also a range of veneers for marquetry, all available at exceptionally low cost.
The Scollsaw SIG meets at the Shed on the third Sunday of the month at 1330.